Swim Lessons
The YMCA is the nation's favorite swim instructor. We teach people of all ages and from all backgrounds that water can be fun — not feared — if you know how to stay safe in and around water.
Swim Lessons
Everyone should know how to swim! YMCA swim lessons are designed to teach this lifelong skill to children and adults of all skill levels in a safe environment.
Develop confidence around water as you learn water safety skills and stroke technique, and discover the health benefits of swimming when integrated into your workout plan.
Looking for specific information? Use the links below to find what you're looking for.
Become a Certified YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor
Are you passionate about helping others learn to swim and stay safe in the water? The YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor course prepares you to teach swimmers of all ages and abilities with confidence, compassion, and clarity.
After completing the course, you'll be certified as a YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor and equipped to:
- Understand the full YMCA Swim Lessons continuum
- Create a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment
- Teach age-appropriate skills and stroke progressions
- Respond effectively in emergencies and promote water safety
Why the Y
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SKILL DEVELOPMENT
From beginner to advanced swim lessons, your child will build upon their skills year after year.
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SAFE
Safety has always been, and will continue to be, our top priority. The Y conducts background checks for all staff that engage with children. Our staff is highly trained in childcare including CPR and First Aid. There is also ongoing professional development.
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CONFIDENCE
Children gain the confidence they need to try new things, make new friends, and do well in school.
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SELF-ESTEEM
When you feel good about yourself, you have the courage to try new things and have new experiences.
Locations
- Offered at the following YMCA locations: Clark County, Downtown, Floyd County, Northeast, Norton Commons, Oldham County, Republic Bank Foundation, Southeast, and Southwest.
Schedule
Year-round
Starting Price
Starting at $60. Prices vary based on level and location.
Age Range
Swim lessons for kids: 6 months to 12 years
Adult swim lessons: 13 and up
The Y is for everyone. If you're looking for financial help, we offer affordable membership and program rates based on household income. Please stop by the branch or give us a call to discuss whether you are eligible for assistance.
At a Glance
Our swim lessons are about more than just the techniques and skills. They are about nurturing swimming skills, developing self-esteem and creating positive experiences that will last a lifetime.
Swim lessons provide a wealth of benefits that go far beyond the water. Studies connect many additional benefits including improved motor skills, cognitive development, strength, self-esteem and social confidence.
Are there ways to save money on swim lessons?
Are there ways to save money on swim lessons?
Yes! Join the Y to save and enjoy special member prices on swim lessons. You can also find out more about reduced rates through our financial assistance program.
Are private swim lessons available?
Are private swim lessons available?
Private classes offer the opportunity to have one-on-one instruction at any level. Private lessons are available at select branches. Please contact your local branch for detailed scheduling and upcoming sessions, or check our schedules for availability.
What do I need to know before I arrive for my lesson?
What do I need to know before I arrive for my lesson?
Health and Safety
- All children who are not potty trained MUST wear a swim diaper
- Please do not bring your child to swim lessons if they are ill, have a fever, vomiting or have had diarrhea in the last 24 hours
- Please be sure to communicate any medical or physical disability to your child’s instructor at the beginning of the swim lesson session
Swim Accessories
- Required: swimsuit, towel, long hair must be pulled back and out of the eyes
- Optional: goggles, swim cap
- All other accessories will be provided by the YMCA
Arrival to Lessons
- Please arrive on the pool deck ready to go 5-10 minutes prior to the official start time for your lesson
- We recommend having your child use the restroom prior to the start of each lesson
- Do not let your child enter the water until they are with their instructor and class has started
Are caregivers allowed on the swim deck during the lesson?
Are caregivers allowed on the swim deck during the lesson?
- Parents of swimmers ages 3-5 are required to stay on deck during the entire lesson
- Parents of swimmer ages 6 and older are not required to stay on deck. If you do choose to stay on deck, please be aware of how your presence impacts your swimmer. Some swimmers may do better without a parent watching. Consult with the swim instructor if you have questions about what will be best for your child.
- Please respect the instructors and do not interfere with the class unless asked
- We do encourage cheering your child on from the side of the pool
- Instructors cannot take children to the restroom; please be available should your child need to use the restroom. If a family restroom is available we encourage you to use that facility when taking your swimmer to the restroom.
- Parents can invite a guest, such as a grandparent or family member, to view a swim lesson.
Are swim lessons cancelled during inclement weather?
Are swim lessons cancelled during inclement weather?
Depending on the Y you are at, there may be a need for pool closure during inclement weather. All swim lesson participants and parents are expected to follow the instructions of the life guard during inclement weather.
What is the cancellation/make-up policy?
What is the cancellation/make-up policy?
- If a participant has to miss a class for illness, injury, travel, or other individual reason there are no make-ups or credits for these missed classes, unless approved by the Aquatics Director.
- If the YMCA has to cancel a class due to unforeseen circumstances, we will do our best to create a make-up class. If we are unable to offer a make-up class, a credit for the missed class will be added to your YMCA account at the end of the session.
When should I register for the next swim lesson session?
When should I register for the next swim lesson session?
Registration for the next swim lesson session will open halfway through the current session. To ensure your child has a spot, we encourage you to register early. Consistent, ongoing participation is key to developing strong swim skills, so early enrollment is highly recommended.
Creating A Safe Environment
The YMCA of Greater Louisville works in partnership with families, staff and volunteers to protect children from child abuse. Learn about how we keep kids in our programs safe.
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